Mahindra is readying up its new compact SUV (codenamed S101), which has been caught recently conducting towing tests. We can see the compact S101 SUV towing a hefty Mahindra Genio, which means that the carmaker is testing the maximum towing capacity of the vehicle and also the new diesel or petrol engines under the hood. Mahindra and SsangYong together are said to be developing new diesel and petrol engines for Mahindra’s future lineup and this could be it. The new motors are expected to be very frugal.
Recently we heard that a 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder turbo petrol motor, mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox is under works for the upcoming Mahindra compact SUV. For the diesel version, Mahindra will plonk in the 1.5-litre, 3-cylinder diesel engine derived from the Quanto, which will be transversely mounted on the S101 baby SUV. The S101 is being developed on a monocoque chassis and will measure less than 4-metres in length to cut down excise duties.
The mini SUV is intended to compete with the likes of the recently launched Ford EcoSport. It will be positioned below the Quanto so expect it to be priced aggressively. The exterior styling will be derived from the XUV500 and the interiors will share some elements with the existing lineup. Just like the EcoSport, Mahindra’s mini SUV will boast a tail mounted spare wheel. The latest spy pictures have revealed the front design to a certain extent with the camouflage peeled off from the front grille and the air dam. It is expected to be unveiled next year.
Pictures Source – Motor Vikatan Facebook Page
